Experiences of mothers attending well-baby clinics in the Buffalo City Metro Health District regarding exclusive breastfeeding
- Authors: Joseph, Valerie Jennifer
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Breastfeeding -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Municipality , Infants -- Nutrition Mothers -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30517 , vital:30956
- Description: The researcher observed that exclusive breastfeeding amongst women for the first six months of a baby’s life is very low. The researcher therefore undertook this study to explore and describe the experiences of mothers attending well babies clinics in the Buffalo City Metro Health District regarding exclusive breastfeeding. A qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual research design was used to conduct this research. The research population included mothers that visited the postnatal clinics and were exclusively breastfeeding their babies for the six weeks and more. Purposive sampling was used to select the research participants. The data was collected using in-depth one-on-one interviews and all interviews were recorded using a voice recorder. The data analysis was done using Tesch’s method to make sense out of the text and data. A pilot study was conducted before undertaking the actual research using the same methods and design as those in the main study. Strategies were implemented throughout the study to ensure trustworthiness and adherence to ethical principles. Three themes and fourteen sub-themes emerged from the data analysis. The three main themes that emerged highlighted challenges experienced by mothers who exclusively breastfeed their babies as well as the positive experiences that they experienced. The participants also made some suggestions with regard to how exclusive breastfeeding could be enhanced among mothers who have babies. Based on the research findings, several recommendations were made, including the involvement of the private sector and Non-Profit organizations in order to improve the exclusive breastfeeding rate.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Joseph, Valerie Jennifer
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Breastfeeding -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Municipality , Infants -- Nutrition Mothers -- South Africa -- Buffalo City Municipality
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/30517 , vital:30956
- Description: The researcher observed that exclusive breastfeeding amongst women for the first six months of a baby’s life is very low. The researcher therefore undertook this study to explore and describe the experiences of mothers attending well babies clinics in the Buffalo City Metro Health District regarding exclusive breastfeeding. A qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual research design was used to conduct this research. The research population included mothers that visited the postnatal clinics and were exclusively breastfeeding their babies for the six weeks and more. Purposive sampling was used to select the research participants. The data was collected using in-depth one-on-one interviews and all interviews were recorded using a voice recorder. The data analysis was done using Tesch’s method to make sense out of the text and data. A pilot study was conducted before undertaking the actual research using the same methods and design as those in the main study. Strategies were implemented throughout the study to ensure trustworthiness and adherence to ethical principles. Three themes and fourteen sub-themes emerged from the data analysis. The three main themes that emerged highlighted challenges experienced by mothers who exclusively breastfeed their babies as well as the positive experiences that they experienced. The participants also made some suggestions with regard to how exclusive breastfeeding could be enhanced among mothers who have babies. Based on the research findings, several recommendations were made, including the involvement of the private sector and Non-Profit organizations in order to improve the exclusive breastfeeding rate.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Experiences of police officers interacting with mentally ill persons in a rural town in the Eastern Cape Province
- Authors: Mjali, Ntombekhaya Mildred
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Mentally ill -- Care , Mentally ill offenders -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Offenses against the person -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Mentally ill -- Commitment and detention -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32120 , vital:31964
- Description: The researcher worked as a psychiatric nurse in a psychiatric hospitalin Chris Hani District Municipality and observed when police officers brought mentally ill persons for admission. The mentally ill persons were dealt with harshly and in a degrading manner which raised concerns. It would seem as if police officers did not take into consideration that they were dealing with innocent individuals who were mentally ill. Therefore the researcher sought to explore how police officers experienced interacting with mentally ill persons during their everyday duties. The aim of the study was to explore and describe the experiences of police officers interacting with mentally ill persons in a rural town in the Chris Hani District Municipality. The study utilised a qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual design. The research population consisted of police officers working in a Community Service Centre in a rural town who regularly came into contact with mentally ill persons in the course of their duties. Purposive sampling was utilised to select participants.Data was collected by doing in-depth, semi-structured interviews with an interview guide until data saturation was reached. Data analysis was done using Tesch’s method of content analysis. Three themes with subthemes were identified and described. A literature control was done to compare the findings with current literature. Trustworthiness was ensured using Guba’s Model of trustworthiness. A high ethical standard was ensured throughout the research process. Police officers had regular contact with the mentally ill, usually when they were called out to a community venue where they had to intervene between an aggressive mentally ill person and the community. This gave them a skewed view of mental illness which they always associated with aggression. Police officers found it difficult to communicate with both the mentally ill person and his/her family. They stated that they did not know how to manage aggressive individuals who were not criminals. Police officers also related that they themselves felt vulnerable, they became very angry with the families and the mentally ill persons and feared that they will be harmed. They also expressed empathy with mentally ill persons. Recommendations were made that police officers should be trained on what their responsibilities were related to the mentally ill person they encounter. To equip them better to deal with the mentally ill, they should also receive training in effective communication and the management of aggression.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mjali, Ntombekhaya Mildred
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Mentally ill -- Care , Mentally ill offenders -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Offenses against the person -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Mentally ill -- Commitment and detention -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32120 , vital:31964
- Description: The researcher worked as a psychiatric nurse in a psychiatric hospitalin Chris Hani District Municipality and observed when police officers brought mentally ill persons for admission. The mentally ill persons were dealt with harshly and in a degrading manner which raised concerns. It would seem as if police officers did not take into consideration that they were dealing with innocent individuals who were mentally ill. Therefore the researcher sought to explore how police officers experienced interacting with mentally ill persons during their everyday duties. The aim of the study was to explore and describe the experiences of police officers interacting with mentally ill persons in a rural town in the Chris Hani District Municipality. The study utilised a qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual design. The research population consisted of police officers working in a Community Service Centre in a rural town who regularly came into contact with mentally ill persons in the course of their duties. Purposive sampling was utilised to select participants.Data was collected by doing in-depth, semi-structured interviews with an interview guide until data saturation was reached. Data analysis was done using Tesch’s method of content analysis. Three themes with subthemes were identified and described. A literature control was done to compare the findings with current literature. Trustworthiness was ensured using Guba’s Model of trustworthiness. A high ethical standard was ensured throughout the research process. Police officers had regular contact with the mentally ill, usually when they were called out to a community venue where they had to intervene between an aggressive mentally ill person and the community. This gave them a skewed view of mental illness which they always associated with aggression. Police officers found it difficult to communicate with both the mentally ill person and his/her family. They stated that they did not know how to manage aggressive individuals who were not criminals. Police officers also related that they themselves felt vulnerable, they became very angry with the families and the mentally ill persons and feared that they will be harmed. They also expressed empathy with mentally ill persons. Recommendations were made that police officers should be trained on what their responsibilities were related to the mentally ill person they encounter. To equip them better to deal with the mentally ill, they should also receive training in effective communication and the management of aggression.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Exploration and design of a synchronous message passing framework for a CPU-NPU heterogeneous architecture
- Pennefather, Sean, Bradshaw, Karen L, Irwin, Barry V W
- Authors: Pennefather, Sean , Bradshaw, Karen L , Irwin, Barry V W
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/429537 , vital:72620 , https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/8425384
- Description: In this paper we present the development of a framework for communication between an NPU (network processing unit) and CPU through synchronous message passing that is compliant with the synchronous communication events of the CSP formalisms. This framework is designed to be used for passing generic information between application components operating on both architectures and is intended to operate in conjunction with existing datapaths present on the NPU which in turn are responsible for network traffic transmission. An investigation of different message passing topologies is covered before the proposed message passing fabric is presented. As a proof of concept, an initial implementation of the fabric is developed and tested to determine its viability and correctness. Through testing it is shown that the implemented framework operates as intended. However, it is noted the throughput of the exploratory implementation is not considered suitable for high-performance applications and further evaluation is required.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Pennefather, Sean , Bradshaw, Karen L , Irwin, Barry V W
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/429537 , vital:72620 , https://ieeexplore.ieee.org/abstract/document/8425384
- Description: In this paper we present the development of a framework for communication between an NPU (network processing unit) and CPU through synchronous message passing that is compliant with the synchronous communication events of the CSP formalisms. This framework is designed to be used for passing generic information between application components operating on both architectures and is intended to operate in conjunction with existing datapaths present on the NPU which in turn are responsible for network traffic transmission. An investigation of different message passing topologies is covered before the proposed message passing fabric is presented. As a proof of concept, an initial implementation of the fabric is developed and tested to determine its viability and correctness. Through testing it is shown that the implemented framework operates as intended. However, it is noted the throughput of the exploratory implementation is not considered suitable for high-performance applications and further evaluation is required.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Exploration of breastfeeding mothers’ knowledge and attitudes toward human milk donation in Nelson Mandela Bay
- Madlingozi, Nompumelelo Sibusisiwe
- Authors: Madlingozi, Nompumelelo Sibusisiwe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Breast milk , Breastfeeding promotion Breastfeeding
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31510 , vital:31499
- Description: The beneficial effects of breastfeeding for mothers and babies are well recognized. When maternal breast milk is not available in sufficient quantity, an alternative source of nutrition is donated breast milk, particularly for ill preterm and other high-risk infants. Therefore, it was important to explore the breastfeeding mothers’ knowledge as well as their attitudes toward human milk donation and the possibilities of enhancing it. The objectives of this study were to: • To explore and describe the breastfeeding mothers’ knowledge as well as their attitudes toward human milk donation in Nelson Mandela Bay. • To make recommendations to operational/unit managers and midwives, based on the findings of the study, in order to enhance and promote human milk bank donation in Nelson Mandela Bay. The study was conducted between November 2016 and January 2017, using a quantitative approach with an explorative, descriptive, and contextual design after obtaining the necessary approval from the university and relevant authorities. The research population consisted of breastfeeding mothers who were in maternity units in either a public or a private hospital in Nelson Mandela Bay. Self-administered questionnaires were used to collect data from conveniently sampled participants by using set inclusion and exclusion criteria after obtaining the necessary informed consent. Data was captured by the researcher on a Microsoft Excel spread sheet and was reduced and analysed with the help of a statistician who used a software package called IBM SPSS Statistics 24 to ensure the efficacy of the results. One hundred and twenty questionnaires were distributed and 104 were returned, meaning that a response rate of 87% was achieved. From the research findings it was found that breastfeeding mothers in Nelson Mandela Bay do not know about human milk banking and donation. Breastfeeding mothers acknowledged the fact that they lacked information about human milk banking and donation. Furthermore, there are safety concerns regarding donated breast milk and all the breastfeeding mothers that were part of the study, had never used milk bank services. Based on these findings, recommendations for the incorporation of v breastfeeding and human milk bank services were made. Further recommendations were made on the inclusion of human milk services in the health education that is given during antenatal and postnatal care. The researcher used a literature control to ensure the validity and integrity of the study. Further, the quality of the study was maintained by observing the principles of reliability and validity. Ethical considerations were guided by the Belmont Report by adopting the principles of autonomy, non-maleficence, beneficence and justice.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Madlingozi, Nompumelelo Sibusisiwe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Breast milk , Breastfeeding promotion Breastfeeding
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MCur
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31510 , vital:31499
- Description: The beneficial effects of breastfeeding for mothers and babies are well recognized. When maternal breast milk is not available in sufficient quantity, an alternative source of nutrition is donated breast milk, particularly for ill preterm and other high-risk infants. Therefore, it was important to explore the breastfeeding mothers’ knowledge as well as their attitudes toward human milk donation and the possibilities of enhancing it. The objectives of this study were to: • To explore and describe the breastfeeding mothers’ knowledge as well as their attitudes toward human milk donation in Nelson Mandela Bay. • To make recommendations to operational/unit managers and midwives, based on the findings of the study, in order to enhance and promote human milk bank donation in Nelson Mandela Bay. The study was conducted between November 2016 and January 2017, using a quantitative approach with an explorative, descriptive, and contextual design after obtaining the necessary approval from the university and relevant authorities. The research population consisted of breastfeeding mothers who were in maternity units in either a public or a private hospital in Nelson Mandela Bay. Self-administered questionnaires were used to collect data from conveniently sampled participants by using set inclusion and exclusion criteria after obtaining the necessary informed consent. Data was captured by the researcher on a Microsoft Excel spread sheet and was reduced and analysed with the help of a statistician who used a software package called IBM SPSS Statistics 24 to ensure the efficacy of the results. One hundred and twenty questionnaires were distributed and 104 were returned, meaning that a response rate of 87% was achieved. From the research findings it was found that breastfeeding mothers in Nelson Mandela Bay do not know about human milk banking and donation. Breastfeeding mothers acknowledged the fact that they lacked information about human milk banking and donation. Furthermore, there are safety concerns regarding donated breast milk and all the breastfeeding mothers that were part of the study, had never used milk bank services. Based on these findings, recommendations for the incorporation of v breastfeeding and human milk bank services were made. Further recommendations were made on the inclusion of human milk services in the health education that is given during antenatal and postnatal care. The researcher used a literature control to ensure the validity and integrity of the study. Further, the quality of the study was maintained by observing the principles of reliability and validity. Ethical considerations were guided by the Belmont Report by adopting the principles of autonomy, non-maleficence, beneficence and justice.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Exploration potential for copperbelt - style mineralisation in NW Province, Zambia; soil geochemistry as a targeting tool
- Authors: Mwamba, John
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Mineralogy -- Zambia -- Copperbelt Province , River sediments -- Zambia -- Copperbelt Province , Soils -- Sampling -- Zambia -- Copperbelt Province , Prospecting -- Geophysical methods , Landsat satellites , Lufilian fold belt
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/62538 , vital:28204
- Description: The NW Province of Zambia is fast becoming a major significant mining district challenging to usurp the economic importance of the traditional Copperbelt Province that has been mined for nearly a century. With latest developments at Kansanshi, Lumwana and Kalumbila mines exploration efforts in the search for Copperbelt style mineralisation have doubled up in the province in recent months. Traditional methods of stream sediment and soil sampling, geophysics, aerial photo and Landsat imagery interpretations have been employed in exploration targeting campaigns. This thesis asks the question: Can we use the Copperbelt geochemical footprint as a proxy to finding new copper deposits in NW Province? The challenge faced in such studies is that few geochemical datasets for old mines exist and the little that does is proprietary information. In some mines this dataset is entirely nonexistent - at least not in the public domain. Attempting to run orientation geochemical trials on such mines is not feasible at present due to maturity of mining and the levels of contamination of the natural environment that have occurred over several decades of mining. However, in tackling this question few Copperbelt geochemical datasets from Baluba, Nkana, Mimbula, Nchanga, Bwana Mkubwa, Mufulira West and Lufubu North were used. The findings presented in this report are that for Copperbelt style mineralisation Cu/Co, Cu/Ni, Cu/Ag ratios in soil geochemistry data should be in the ranges of 0.25 to 0.48 provided geochemical studies occurred in residual soils. These ratios hold true for sediment hosted copper-cobalt mineralisation hosted at various stratigraphic levels within the Roan Group or in upper levels elsewhere on the Central African Copperbelt. Geochemical dataset for the study areas presented in this report show that the soil geochemistry footprint in the province is not dissimilar to the soil geochemistry footprint of the traditional Copperbelt Province. This means there is great potential for finding Copperbelt style mineralisation in the province and other styles of mineralisation in which copper is associated with cobalt, lead, zinc, nickel, vanadium and molybdenum. The areas of study also possess requisite geological factors that are conducive to hosting Copperbelt style deposits. These factors include: favourable structural traps with similar trends to existing mines in the province, geophysical characteristics comparable to other deposits in the province, right geological package known to host multi-type deposits in the Katangan stratigraphic sequence, and similar geochemical footprints observed on other deposits within the Lufilian fold belt. For this reason, geochemical dataset must not be looked at in isolation but should be treated in considerations with other factors and geological environment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Mwamba, John
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Mineralogy -- Zambia -- Copperbelt Province , River sediments -- Zambia -- Copperbelt Province , Soils -- Sampling -- Zambia -- Copperbelt Province , Prospecting -- Geophysical methods , Landsat satellites , Lufilian fold belt
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MSc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/62538 , vital:28204
- Description: The NW Province of Zambia is fast becoming a major significant mining district challenging to usurp the economic importance of the traditional Copperbelt Province that has been mined for nearly a century. With latest developments at Kansanshi, Lumwana and Kalumbila mines exploration efforts in the search for Copperbelt style mineralisation have doubled up in the province in recent months. Traditional methods of stream sediment and soil sampling, geophysics, aerial photo and Landsat imagery interpretations have been employed in exploration targeting campaigns. This thesis asks the question: Can we use the Copperbelt geochemical footprint as a proxy to finding new copper deposits in NW Province? The challenge faced in such studies is that few geochemical datasets for old mines exist and the little that does is proprietary information. In some mines this dataset is entirely nonexistent - at least not in the public domain. Attempting to run orientation geochemical trials on such mines is not feasible at present due to maturity of mining and the levels of contamination of the natural environment that have occurred over several decades of mining. However, in tackling this question few Copperbelt geochemical datasets from Baluba, Nkana, Mimbula, Nchanga, Bwana Mkubwa, Mufulira West and Lufubu North were used. The findings presented in this report are that for Copperbelt style mineralisation Cu/Co, Cu/Ni, Cu/Ag ratios in soil geochemistry data should be in the ranges of 0.25 to 0.48 provided geochemical studies occurred in residual soils. These ratios hold true for sediment hosted copper-cobalt mineralisation hosted at various stratigraphic levels within the Roan Group or in upper levels elsewhere on the Central African Copperbelt. Geochemical dataset for the study areas presented in this report show that the soil geochemistry footprint in the province is not dissimilar to the soil geochemistry footprint of the traditional Copperbelt Province. This means there is great potential for finding Copperbelt style mineralisation in the province and other styles of mineralisation in which copper is associated with cobalt, lead, zinc, nickel, vanadium and molybdenum. The areas of study also possess requisite geological factors that are conducive to hosting Copperbelt style deposits. These factors include: favourable structural traps with similar trends to existing mines in the province, geophysical characteristics comparable to other deposits in the province, right geological package known to host multi-type deposits in the Katangan stratigraphic sequence, and similar geochemical footprints observed on other deposits within the Lufilian fold belt. For this reason, geochemical dataset must not be looked at in isolation but should be treated in considerations with other factors and geological environment.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Exploring an operational strategy for South African electron microscopy facilities
- Authors: Olivier, Ezra Jacobus
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Electron microscopy , Production management -- South Africa Strategic planning -- South Africa Performance -- Management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/34465 , vital:33383
- Description: Electron microscopy is a versatile and widely used technique in the fields of physical and biological sciences. It is a strategic enabling resource needed for innovative science and technology research to occur in the areas of nanotechnology developments. The availability of these resources worldwide are typically seen within dedicated shared electron microscopy research facilities due to the costs and operational support required in acquisition and operation of these instruments. A consequence of this is that these facilities require carefully designed operational management approaches. One of the pertinent questions within the electron microscopy community of South Africa is if electron microscopy core facilities in the country could be judged successful in the execution of their operations. Some concerns related to the skills present at these facilities as well as the management philosophy of these facilities have been raised. This study aims to investigate these factors within an South African context. In the current study, a combination of the quantitative and qualitative research paradigms was used. A survey was conducted amongst South African electron microscopy core facility users to measure their level of satisfaction and needs related to electron microscopy core facilities in South Africa. Furthermore, insights where gathered from experienced managers of electron microscopy core facilities nationally and internationally using a case study based approach. The findings were combined and compared to identify the critical factors needed to optimise the operational approaches of electron microscopy facilities in South Africa and to develop a standardised approach in judging a facility’s performance. The study provided valuable insights as to the level of satisfaction present within the electron microscopy community of South Africa related to the use of electron microscopy core facilities in the country. It also yielded important information regarding the areas where the highest need for improvement lies. The outcome of the study provides a standardized approach to the operations of electron microscopy research facilities in South Africa and their performance evaluation. A possible limitation to the study is the population sample used for the survey. The survey was completed by existing electron microscopy core facility users in South Africa. However, the experiences and needs of less frequent or potential new users of such facilities were not probed. Thus, the developed strategy may lack factors related to growing the field in South Africa if the needs of inexperienced users are not taken into account.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Olivier, Ezra Jacobus
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Electron microscopy , Production management -- South Africa Strategic planning -- South Africa Performance -- Management -- South Africa
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/34465 , vital:33383
- Description: Electron microscopy is a versatile and widely used technique in the fields of physical and biological sciences. It is a strategic enabling resource needed for innovative science and technology research to occur in the areas of nanotechnology developments. The availability of these resources worldwide are typically seen within dedicated shared electron microscopy research facilities due to the costs and operational support required in acquisition and operation of these instruments. A consequence of this is that these facilities require carefully designed operational management approaches. One of the pertinent questions within the electron microscopy community of South Africa is if electron microscopy core facilities in the country could be judged successful in the execution of their operations. Some concerns related to the skills present at these facilities as well as the management philosophy of these facilities have been raised. This study aims to investigate these factors within an South African context. In the current study, a combination of the quantitative and qualitative research paradigms was used. A survey was conducted amongst South African electron microscopy core facility users to measure their level of satisfaction and needs related to electron microscopy core facilities in South Africa. Furthermore, insights where gathered from experienced managers of electron microscopy core facilities nationally and internationally using a case study based approach. The findings were combined and compared to identify the critical factors needed to optimise the operational approaches of electron microscopy facilities in South Africa and to develop a standardised approach in judging a facility’s performance. The study provided valuable insights as to the level of satisfaction present within the electron microscopy community of South Africa related to the use of electron microscopy core facilities in the country. It also yielded important information regarding the areas where the highest need for improvement lies. The outcome of the study provides a standardized approach to the operations of electron microscopy research facilities in South Africa and their performance evaluation. A possible limitation to the study is the population sample used for the survey. The survey was completed by existing electron microscopy core facility users in South Africa. However, the experiences and needs of less frequent or potential new users of such facilities were not probed. Thus, the developed strategy may lack factors related to growing the field in South Africa if the needs of inexperienced users are not taken into account.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Exploring experiences of student nurses regarding the implementation of community-based education at the nursing college in the Eastern Cape
- Authors: Sefatsa, Thenjiwe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Community education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Nurses -- Education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Nursing Science
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10657 , vital:35653
- Description: The aim of the study was to explore the experiences of student nurses regarding the implementation of CBE and allow them to tell their story of how CBE impacted to their academic experience. Purposive non-probability sampling was the method of choice. The following research question guided this study: What are the experiences of nursing students at the nursing college on the implementation of CBE as a teaching-learning strategy? The participants in this study were the fourth year students registered in the four year diploma and have been exposed to CBE, according to regulation 425 of the Nursing Act, 2005(Act No.33 of 2005). Fifty (50) students voluntarily participated in the focus groups discussions. Data analysis was done concurrently with data collection. Data was analysed manually as it was categorised into themes, categories, and subcatagories. For this study, a category system/ template was developed to code the data according to the categories, therefore related concepts were grouped together to facilitate the coding process. The final analysis led to the development of a report presenting the interpretation and presentation of results. RESULTS The study results revealed that students had benefited from CBE as a teaching learning strategy. Furthermore, participants reported that CBE had an impact in their training in terms of acquisition of skills, personal and professional growth and correlation of theory to practice. Discussions of findings, along with recommendations for practice conclude the study. Suggestions might be made to improve ways in the implementation of CBE in the nursing college
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Sefatsa, Thenjiwe
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Community education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Nurses -- Education -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape Community development -- South Africa -- Eastern Cape
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , Nursing Science
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/10657 , vital:35653
- Description: The aim of the study was to explore the experiences of student nurses regarding the implementation of CBE and allow them to tell their story of how CBE impacted to their academic experience. Purposive non-probability sampling was the method of choice. The following research question guided this study: What are the experiences of nursing students at the nursing college on the implementation of CBE as a teaching-learning strategy? The participants in this study were the fourth year students registered in the four year diploma and have been exposed to CBE, according to regulation 425 of the Nursing Act, 2005(Act No.33 of 2005). Fifty (50) students voluntarily participated in the focus groups discussions. Data analysis was done concurrently with data collection. Data was analysed manually as it was categorised into themes, categories, and subcatagories. For this study, a category system/ template was developed to code the data according to the categories, therefore related concepts were grouped together to facilitate the coding process. The final analysis led to the development of a report presenting the interpretation and presentation of results. RESULTS The study results revealed that students had benefited from CBE as a teaching learning strategy. Furthermore, participants reported that CBE had an impact in their training in terms of acquisition of skills, personal and professional growth and correlation of theory to practice. Discussions of findings, along with recommendations for practice conclude the study. Suggestions might be made to improve ways in the implementation of CBE in the nursing college
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Exploring grade 3 teachers’ resistance to ‘take up’progressive mathematics teaching roles
- Graven, Mellony, Westaway, Lise
- Authors: Graven, Mellony , Westaway, Lise
- Date: 2018
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/69700 , vital:29568 , https://DOI: 10.1007/s13394-018-0237-7
- Description: This article addresses the question: Why teachers of mathematics have yet to ‘take up’ progressive roles? Drawing on the philosophy of critical realism and its methodological equivalent, social realism, we analyse interview and observation data of four grade 3 teachers, with the view to identifying the mechanisms conditioning the expression of teachers’ identities. In so doing, we show how post-apartheid changes in systemic roles of teachers create contradictory tensions for teachers as these bring their own mathematical learning and teaching experiences into contradiction with the new post-apartheid roles they are mandated to enact. We examine how this contradiction, together with beliefs about mathematics, pedagogy and learners, is expressed in the teaching of grade 3 mathematics. We maintain that the complementarity between teachers’ beliefs and old systemic roles provides an explanation for why teachers of grade 3 mathematics have yet to ‘take-up’ progressive roles. The implications point to the need for teacher development that creates enablers that lead to changes in classroom practices that align with policy-designated, progressive roles in teaching mathematics.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Graven, Mellony , Westaway, Lise
- Date: 2018
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/69700 , vital:29568 , https://DOI: 10.1007/s13394-018-0237-7
- Description: This article addresses the question: Why teachers of mathematics have yet to ‘take up’ progressive roles? Drawing on the philosophy of critical realism and its methodological equivalent, social realism, we analyse interview and observation data of four grade 3 teachers, with the view to identifying the mechanisms conditioning the expression of teachers’ identities. In so doing, we show how post-apartheid changes in systemic roles of teachers create contradictory tensions for teachers as these bring their own mathematical learning and teaching experiences into contradiction with the new post-apartheid roles they are mandated to enact. We examine how this contradiction, together with beliefs about mathematics, pedagogy and learners, is expressed in the teaching of grade 3 mathematics. We maintain that the complementarity between teachers’ beliefs and old systemic roles provides an explanation for why teachers of grade 3 mathematics have yet to ‘take-up’ progressive roles. The implications point to the need for teacher development that creates enablers that lead to changes in classroom practices that align with policy-designated, progressive roles in teaching mathematics.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Exploring learning networks for homestead food gardening and smallholder farming
- Authors: Lotz-Sisitka, Heila
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/182775 , vital:43873 , xlink:href="https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC-f09c3866c "
- Description: The Water Research Commission (WRC) is well known for its high quality knowledge products. The Water Utilisation in Agriculture (WUA) section has, over the years, produced valuable knowledge to guide the harvesting and conservation of rainwater to improve agricultural productivity among smallholder crop farmers and household food producers. This knowledge is useful for especially the many women farmers around the country growing crops to feed their families, and whenever possible selling excess to generate some income. However, one of the problems experienced in the field is that this knowledge does not always reach the intended audience. This is the problem that the Amanzi [Water] for Food project was engaged with.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Lotz-Sisitka, Heila
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/182775 , vital:43873 , xlink:href="https://hdl.handle.net/10520/EJC-f09c3866c "
- Description: The Water Research Commission (WRC) is well known for its high quality knowledge products. The Water Utilisation in Agriculture (WUA) section has, over the years, produced valuable knowledge to guide the harvesting and conservation of rainwater to improve agricultural productivity among smallholder crop farmers and household food producers. This knowledge is useful for especially the many women farmers around the country growing crops to feed their families, and whenever possible selling excess to generate some income. However, one of the problems experienced in the field is that this knowledge does not always reach the intended audience. This is the problem that the Amanzi [Water] for Food project was engaged with.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Exploring lecturer preparedness to apply a critical approach to curriculum implementation: a case study
- Authors: Sathorar, Heloise Helena
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Teacher participation in curriculum planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31786 , vital:31828
- Description: This study sought to investigate lecturer preparedness to apply a critical approach to curriculum implementation and to establish their willingness or unwillingness to engage as transformative intellectuals with their students and to apply a problem-posing education in their classrooms. The study investigated lecturers’ critical pedagogy dispositions as well as their orientations towards applying a critical approach to curriculum implementation. A comprehensive literature review was done regarding the concept critical pedagogy, its tenets and principles as well as what it entails to apply a critical approach to curriculum implementation. In particular the literature review highlighted the responsibilities of a transformative intellectual as well as the requirements of applying a problem-posing education. The study was conducted through a constructivist lens and theoretically framed by referring to specific critical pedagogy concepts. The study is located in the interpretive paradigm and a qualitative research approach was followed. In particular, an instrumental case study analysis was used as research method. The sample consisted of 20 permanently employed lecturers from the School for Initial Teacher Education in the Faculty of Education at Nelson Mandela University who volunteered to participate in an online investigation regarding their critical pedagogy dispositions as well as their orientations towards applying a critical approach to curriculum implementation. The findings of the study revealed that lecturers generally have a positive disposition towards critical pedagogy as well as towards the application of a critical approach to curriculum implementation. Despite this positive picture there were pockets of resistance towards critical pedagogy and the application of a critical approach to curriculum implementation. Finally, the study proposes a critical approach model that could be employed to enhance lecturer preparedness to apply a critical approach in their classes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Sathorar, Heloise Helena
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Teacher participation in curriculum planning
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Doctoral , DPhil
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/31786 , vital:31828
- Description: This study sought to investigate lecturer preparedness to apply a critical approach to curriculum implementation and to establish their willingness or unwillingness to engage as transformative intellectuals with their students and to apply a problem-posing education in their classrooms. The study investigated lecturers’ critical pedagogy dispositions as well as their orientations towards applying a critical approach to curriculum implementation. A comprehensive literature review was done regarding the concept critical pedagogy, its tenets and principles as well as what it entails to apply a critical approach to curriculum implementation. In particular the literature review highlighted the responsibilities of a transformative intellectual as well as the requirements of applying a problem-posing education. The study was conducted through a constructivist lens and theoretically framed by referring to specific critical pedagogy concepts. The study is located in the interpretive paradigm and a qualitative research approach was followed. In particular, an instrumental case study analysis was used as research method. The sample consisted of 20 permanently employed lecturers from the School for Initial Teacher Education in the Faculty of Education at Nelson Mandela University who volunteered to participate in an online investigation regarding their critical pedagogy dispositions as well as their orientations towards applying a critical approach to curriculum implementation. The findings of the study revealed that lecturers generally have a positive disposition towards critical pedagogy as well as towards the application of a critical approach to curriculum implementation. Despite this positive picture there were pockets of resistance towards critical pedagogy and the application of a critical approach to curriculum implementation. Finally, the study proposes a critical approach model that could be employed to enhance lecturer preparedness to apply a critical approach in their classes.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Exploring management challenges faced by small and medium sized enterprises in the South African construction industry – the case of selected construction companies in Gauteng
- Authors: Moloi, Diile Evelyn
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Construction industry -- South Africa -- Gauteng -- Management , Small business -- South Africa -- Gauteng Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Gauteng
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32322 , vital:32021
- Description: Often the role of management is described in terms of profit making, maximizing economic opportunities and practicing total entrepreneurship while at the same time ensuring ethical practices in organisations. This makes a manager’s role to be significant to the growth and sustainability of the business. Management is entrusted with the responsibility to ensure that systems and processes in the business operate as intended through effective and efficient use of resources and appropriate delegation to employees. The process of managing does, however, come with its own challenges and every day management must attend to these challenges to ensure that the organisation remains profitable in spite of operational interruptions. Management often lacks resources and the capacity required for the realisation of effective operational success. The business landscape is highly evolved ever since globalisation and opening of international trade markets has come into play. The evolution has made trade and regular transacting among companies to be standardized with minor differences for some products and services. The rapid changes that come as a result of this are often beyond what most organisations and its management, particular small business owners, are able to comprehend and deal with. Disregard of the management challenges has the potential to be detrimental to the smooth running of the business and negatively impact finances of the business. The problem herein is the result of a collapse of many small businesses due to inadequate management of internal challenges. The primary objective of this study was to explore the management challenges faced by SME managers in the South African construction industry. The aim was to outline the management challenges in support of previous research findings in the field of management studies. Through literature research, the variables of resources, skills, control systems and financial management were identified as having an influence of the effective management of the organisations. The variables were used in the development of a conceptual framework that may be used in addressing the management challenges. The empirical research results identified skills and financial management challenges to be most critical to the overall effective management of SMEs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Moloi, Diile Evelyn
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Construction industry -- South Africa -- Gauteng -- Management , Small business -- South Africa -- Gauteng Business enterprises -- South Africa -- Gauteng
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MBA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32322 , vital:32021
- Description: Often the role of management is described in terms of profit making, maximizing economic opportunities and practicing total entrepreneurship while at the same time ensuring ethical practices in organisations. This makes a manager’s role to be significant to the growth and sustainability of the business. Management is entrusted with the responsibility to ensure that systems and processes in the business operate as intended through effective and efficient use of resources and appropriate delegation to employees. The process of managing does, however, come with its own challenges and every day management must attend to these challenges to ensure that the organisation remains profitable in spite of operational interruptions. Management often lacks resources and the capacity required for the realisation of effective operational success. The business landscape is highly evolved ever since globalisation and opening of international trade markets has come into play. The evolution has made trade and regular transacting among companies to be standardized with minor differences for some products and services. The rapid changes that come as a result of this are often beyond what most organisations and its management, particular small business owners, are able to comprehend and deal with. Disregard of the management challenges has the potential to be detrimental to the smooth running of the business and negatively impact finances of the business. The problem herein is the result of a collapse of many small businesses due to inadequate management of internal challenges. The primary objective of this study was to explore the management challenges faced by SME managers in the South African construction industry. The aim was to outline the management challenges in support of previous research findings in the field of management studies. Through literature research, the variables of resources, skills, control systems and financial management were identified as having an influence of the effective management of the organisations. The variables were used in the development of a conceptual framework that may be used in addressing the management challenges. The empirical research results identified skills and financial management challenges to be most critical to the overall effective management of SMEs.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Exploring mindfulness as an intervention on teachers’ stress, anxiety and depression in the Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Authors: Hemmings, Tanya
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Teachers -- Job stress , Stress (Psychology) Anxiety Depression, Mental
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22365 , vital:29962
- Description: Teaching has been identified as one of the most stress-inducing occupations, thus improving the psychological well-being of teachers is a priority. Research indicates that mindfulness is an effective intervention in stress-related illnesses. This mixed methods study examined the outcomes of a six-week mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) on teachers’ stress, anxiety and depression. Six teachers from a high school in Port Elizabeth were selected through non-probability, purposive sampling. Quantitative data was collected by means of pretest- posttest questionnaires, namely the Symptom Checklist-90-R (SCL-90-R), Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale, 21-item version (DASS-21), Mindfulness Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), and Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ). Descriptive statistics and the Mann-Whitney U-Test revealed a significant difference between the pretest-posttest depression levels of the participants (p < 0.05), and non-significant differences for the anxiety, stress, and mindfulness levels (p = 0.06). Qualitative data from a focus group interview, utilising semi-structured open-ended questions, was analysed using thematic analysis. Five themes were identified, namely changes in stress, anxiety and depression levels, awareness and attention, self-regulation, impact on the teaching environment, and specific negative and positive experiences. Themes were evaluated according to literature and examined through the lens of self-determination theory (SDT). The findings indicated that mindfulness has potential to enhance well-being, and alleviate symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression, in a teaching context.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Hemmings, Tanya
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Teachers -- Job stress , Stress (Psychology) Anxiety Depression, Mental
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/22365 , vital:29962
- Description: Teaching has been identified as one of the most stress-inducing occupations, thus improving the psychological well-being of teachers is a priority. Research indicates that mindfulness is an effective intervention in stress-related illnesses. This mixed methods study examined the outcomes of a six-week mindfulness-based intervention (MBI) on teachers’ stress, anxiety and depression. Six teachers from a high school in Port Elizabeth were selected through non-probability, purposive sampling. Quantitative data was collected by means of pretest- posttest questionnaires, namely the Symptom Checklist-90-R (SCL-90-R), Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale, 21-item version (DASS-21), Mindfulness Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), and Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ). Descriptive statistics and the Mann-Whitney U-Test revealed a significant difference between the pretest-posttest depression levels of the participants (p < 0.05), and non-significant differences for the anxiety, stress, and mindfulness levels (p = 0.06). Qualitative data from a focus group interview, utilising semi-structured open-ended questions, was analysed using thematic analysis. Five themes were identified, namely changes in stress, anxiety and depression levels, awareness and attention, self-regulation, impact on the teaching environment, and specific negative and positive experiences. Themes were evaluated according to literature and examined through the lens of self-determination theory (SDT). The findings indicated that mindfulness has potential to enhance well-being, and alleviate symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression, in a teaching context.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Exploring molecular insights into the interaction mechanism of cholesterol derivatives with the Mce4A: A combined spectroscopic and molecular dynamic simulation studies
- Khan, Shagufta, Khan, Faez I, Khan, Parvez, Hasan, Gulam M, Lobb, Kevin A, Islam, Asimul, Ahmad, Faizan, Hassan, M Imtaiyaz
- Authors: Khan, Shagufta , Khan, Faez I , Khan, Parvez , Hasan, Gulam M , Lobb, Kevin A , Islam, Asimul , Ahmad, Faizan , Hassan, M Imtaiyaz
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/447041 , vital:74579 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2017.12.160"
- Description: Mammalian cell entry protein (Mce4A) is a member of MCE-family, and is being considered as a potential drug target of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection because it is required for invasion and latent survival of pathogen by utilizing host's cholesterol. In the present study, we performed molecular docking followed by 100 ns MD simulation studies to understand the mechanism of interaction of Mce4A to the cholesterol derivatives and probucol. The selected ligands, cholesterol, 25-hydroxycholesterol, 5-cholesten-3β-ol-7-one and probucol bind to the predicted active site cavity of Mce4A, and complexes remain stable during entire simulation of 100 ns. In silico studies were further validated by fluorescence-binding studies to calculate actual binding affinity and number of binding site(s). The non-toxicity of all ligands was confirmed on human monocytic cell (THP1) by MTT assay. This work provides a deeper insight into the mechanism of interaction of Mce4A to cholesterol derivatives, which may be further exploited to design potential and specific inhibitors to ameliorate the Mycobacterium pathogenesis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Khan, Shagufta , Khan, Faez I , Khan, Parvez , Hasan, Gulam M , Lobb, Kevin A , Islam, Asimul , Ahmad, Faizan , Hassan, M Imtaiyaz
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: To be catalogued
- Language: English
- Type: text , article
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/447041 , vital:74579 , xlink:href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2017.12.160"
- Description: Mammalian cell entry protein (Mce4A) is a member of MCE-family, and is being considered as a potential drug target of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection because it is required for invasion and latent survival of pathogen by utilizing host's cholesterol. In the present study, we performed molecular docking followed by 100 ns MD simulation studies to understand the mechanism of interaction of Mce4A to the cholesterol derivatives and probucol. The selected ligands, cholesterol, 25-hydroxycholesterol, 5-cholesten-3β-ol-7-one and probucol bind to the predicted active site cavity of Mce4A, and complexes remain stable during entire simulation of 100 ns. In silico studies were further validated by fluorescence-binding studies to calculate actual binding affinity and number of binding site(s). The non-toxicity of all ligands was confirmed on human monocytic cell (THP1) by MTT assay. This work provides a deeper insight into the mechanism of interaction of Mce4A to cholesterol derivatives, which may be further exploited to design potential and specific inhibitors to ameliorate the Mycobacterium pathogenesis.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Exploring National Certificate Vocational (NCV) level two learners’ misconceptions in algebraic functions through integrating GeoGebra during teaching and learning
- Authors: Ngwabe, Abongile
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Algebraic functions -- Study and teaching , Algebraic fields , Mathematical analysis -- Data processing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/33671 , vital:32963
- Description: This study focuses on exploring NCV level two learners’ misconceptions in algebraic functions through integrating GeoGebra Dynamic Software during teaching and learning. The research investigates how the integration of GeoGebra during teaching and learning algebraic functions influenced learners’ misconceptions in algebraic functions. Vygotsky’s sociocultural view of learning underpinned the process of teaching and learning during the study. The research was carried out at the TVET College in Port Elizabeth. The data was collected by means of pre-test and post-test, focus group interviews, GeoGebra intervention and observations. Created GeoGebra applets and a worksheet was used during the integration process. The data collected was analyzed and used to answer the research questions of this study. Research findings showed that the integration of GeoGebra during teaching and learning enhanced learners’ conceptual understanding in algebraic functions. There was a significance increase in the number of learners who showed ability to interpret algebraic functions based concepts after the engagement with GeoGebra applets.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Ngwabe, Abongile
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Mathematics -- Study and teaching -- South Africa , Algebraic functions -- Study and teaching , Algebraic fields , Mathematical analysis -- Data processing
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/33671 , vital:32963
- Description: This study focuses on exploring NCV level two learners’ misconceptions in algebraic functions through integrating GeoGebra Dynamic Software during teaching and learning. The research investigates how the integration of GeoGebra during teaching and learning algebraic functions influenced learners’ misconceptions in algebraic functions. Vygotsky’s sociocultural view of learning underpinned the process of teaching and learning during the study. The research was carried out at the TVET College in Port Elizabeth. The data was collected by means of pre-test and post-test, focus group interviews, GeoGebra intervention and observations. Created GeoGebra applets and a worksheet was used during the integration process. The data collected was analyzed and used to answer the research questions of this study. Research findings showed that the integration of GeoGebra during teaching and learning enhanced learners’ conceptual understanding in algebraic functions. There was a significance increase in the number of learners who showed ability to interpret algebraic functions based concepts after the engagement with GeoGebra applets.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Exploring para-thiophenols to expand the SAR of antimalarial 3-indolylethanones
- Authors: Chisango, Ruramai Lissa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Antimalarials , Malaria Chemotherapy , Thiols , Plasmodium falciparum , Blood-brain barrier
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/63515 , vital:28428
- Description: According to the WHO, malaria is responsible for over half a million deaths annually especially in populations from disadvantaged settings. Although there has been a documented improvement in the mortality rates, malaria has proved to be a global emergency. Mostly affecting the poor population, this disease is perpetuating a vicious cycle of poverty in the developing world as current preventive measures are not adequate unless adopted in addition to effective treatment. However, there has been a worldwide increase in resistance to available treatment which presents a need for novel, affordable treatment. A study conducted in our laboratory identified two hit thiophenol containing compounds 2.24 and 2.25. These molecules provided initial insight into the SAR and potential pharmacophore of this class of compounds. We decided to further explore these compounds by making bioisosteric replacements to optimize the structure as we monitor the effect of these modifications on the anti-plasmodial activity. The synthetic pathway to form the target compounds of our study comprised of three steps which were initiated by the Friedel-Crafts acetylation of the indoles resulting in compounds 3.5 - 3.7. A bromination step followed which yielded the -bromo ketones (3.8 - 3.11). Some of the thiophenols (3.14 and 3.16) were not readily available in our laboratory and so were synthesized for the final synthetic step. This step involved the nucleophilic displacement of the -bromine to generate the -aryl substituted 3-indolylethanones (3.17 - 3.27). The thioethers displayed improved antimalarial activity from 2.24 and 2.25 against the chloroquine sensitive 3D7 Plasmodium falciparum strain. In addition, these compounds were non-toxic against HeLa cells which indicated this potential novel class of antimalarials is selective for the malaria parasite as hypothesized in the previous study conducted in our laboratory. In an attempt to predict the bioavailability of some of our compounds, in silico studies were conducted revealing that these compounds could be passively absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract, a positive result for bioavailability purposes. However, results from these studies indicate that modifications of these compounds would be necessary to allow for permeation through the blood brain barrier (BBB) for instances when the patient has cerebral malaria. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmacy, 2018
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Chisango, Ruramai Lissa
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Antimalarials , Malaria Chemotherapy , Thiols , Plasmodium falciparum , Blood-brain barrier
- Language: English
- Type: Master's theses , text
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/63515 , vital:28428
- Description: According to the WHO, malaria is responsible for over half a million deaths annually especially in populations from disadvantaged settings. Although there has been a documented improvement in the mortality rates, malaria has proved to be a global emergency. Mostly affecting the poor population, this disease is perpetuating a vicious cycle of poverty in the developing world as current preventive measures are not adequate unless adopted in addition to effective treatment. However, there has been a worldwide increase in resistance to available treatment which presents a need for novel, affordable treatment. A study conducted in our laboratory identified two hit thiophenol containing compounds 2.24 and 2.25. These molecules provided initial insight into the SAR and potential pharmacophore of this class of compounds. We decided to further explore these compounds by making bioisosteric replacements to optimize the structure as we monitor the effect of these modifications on the anti-plasmodial activity. The synthetic pathway to form the target compounds of our study comprised of three steps which were initiated by the Friedel-Crafts acetylation of the indoles resulting in compounds 3.5 - 3.7. A bromination step followed which yielded the -bromo ketones (3.8 - 3.11). Some of the thiophenols (3.14 and 3.16) were not readily available in our laboratory and so were synthesized for the final synthetic step. This step involved the nucleophilic displacement of the -bromine to generate the -aryl substituted 3-indolylethanones (3.17 - 3.27). The thioethers displayed improved antimalarial activity from 2.24 and 2.25 against the chloroquine sensitive 3D7 Plasmodium falciparum strain. In addition, these compounds were non-toxic against HeLa cells which indicated this potential novel class of antimalarials is selective for the malaria parasite as hypothesized in the previous study conducted in our laboratory. In an attempt to predict the bioavailability of some of our compounds, in silico studies were conducted revealing that these compounds could be passively absorbed by the gastrointestinal tract, a positive result for bioavailability purposes. However, results from these studies indicate that modifications of these compounds would be necessary to allow for permeation through the blood brain barrier (BBB) for instances when the patient has cerebral malaria. , Thesis (MSc) -- Faculty of Pharmacy, Pharmacy, 2018
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Exploring teachers’ attitudes to implementing blended learning: a case study
- Authors: Williams, Monique
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Blended learning -- South Africa , Educational technology -- South Africa Education, Higher -- South Africa Internet in education
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35829 , vital:33851
- Description: One of the many characteristics of the 21st century learner is that they are highly technologically skilled. This characteristic poses today’s teachers with many challenges in order to teach these learners and create optimal learning experiences. It is evident that teachers have their own preferred teaching methods which they believe work best and some teachers teach the way that they were taught at school in ways that have become part of their habitus. Blended learning is a teaching method that can promote effective learning experiences in the 21st century learning environment. This study focussed on teachers’ experiences with blended learning and their current ideas on how learners learn optimally and whether the practice of blended learning changed their ideas of learning. Furthermore, the study determined the teachers’ present technology acceptance and established teachers’ personal views regarding the challenges that teachers face to teach 21st century skills, what they think 21st century teaching is about and new insights on dealing with these challenges. Through experiencing blended learning teachers who made use of a textbook based teaching method made shifts not only to a blended approach, but also shifted their thinking away from what they prefer to what learners get out of the learning experience. Although challenges occur when using a blended teaching approach, their experiences with blended learning were mostly positive and they found learners to be more involved in the learning process. These outcomes created feelings of worthiness in the teachers since they create such positive learning opportunities for their learners. Although the teachers made shifts, some teachers continue to have a fear of technology since they had not received adequate training to incorporate technology into their teaching approaches. It is crucial for the DBE and schools to provide teachers with opportunities to improve their technological skills in order for teachers to create opportunities for blended learning experiences for the 21st century learner
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Williams, Monique
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Blended learning -- South Africa , Educational technology -- South Africa Education, Higher -- South Africa Internet in education
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MEd
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/35829 , vital:33851
- Description: One of the many characteristics of the 21st century learner is that they are highly technologically skilled. This characteristic poses today’s teachers with many challenges in order to teach these learners and create optimal learning experiences. It is evident that teachers have their own preferred teaching methods which they believe work best and some teachers teach the way that they were taught at school in ways that have become part of their habitus. Blended learning is a teaching method that can promote effective learning experiences in the 21st century learning environment. This study focussed on teachers’ experiences with blended learning and their current ideas on how learners learn optimally and whether the practice of blended learning changed their ideas of learning. Furthermore, the study determined the teachers’ present technology acceptance and established teachers’ personal views regarding the challenges that teachers face to teach 21st century skills, what they think 21st century teaching is about and new insights on dealing with these challenges. Through experiencing blended learning teachers who made use of a textbook based teaching method made shifts not only to a blended approach, but also shifted their thinking away from what they prefer to what learners get out of the learning experience. Although challenges occur when using a blended teaching approach, their experiences with blended learning were mostly positive and they found learners to be more involved in the learning process. These outcomes created feelings of worthiness in the teachers since they create such positive learning opportunities for their learners. Although the teachers made shifts, some teachers continue to have a fear of technology since they had not received adequate training to incorporate technology into their teaching approaches. It is crucial for the DBE and schools to provide teachers with opportunities to improve their technological skills in order for teachers to create opportunities for blended learning experiences for the 21st century learner
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Exploring the adaptability and applicability of military mental skills training for South African paramedics
- Authors: Minnie, Chantel
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Allied health personnel -- South Africa , Allied health personnel -- Mental health -- South Africa , Post-traumatic stress disorder -- South Africa , Emergency medical services -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/61580 , vital:28039
- Description: Paramedics in South Africa are among the best in the world (MacFarlane, van Loggerenberg, & Kloeck, 2005). However, the domain of pre-hospital emergency care is fraught with challenges and paramedics face numerous personal and professional difficulties. South Africa, with its diverse patient population and challenges, cannot afford to undermine the importance of supportive interventions for emergency medical technicians. Whilst there is a growing body of literature examining the effectiveness of mental skills training in the sporting domain (Gould, Dieffenbach, & Moffett, 2002; Landers & Boutcher, 1998), there is a lack of research on mental skills training as it pertains to paramedics. It is argued here, that the use of mental skills training derived from sporting science and adapted for the military, provides the most comparable context in relation to the paramedic industry. This study thus aims to explore the adaptability and applicability of military mental skills training techniques in the context of South African paramedics. This study made use of an exploratory, qualitative case study design, focusing on participatory research strategies. The analysis revealed that various aspects of existing military mental skills models can be adapted to be of relevance in the emergency medical services field as it related to three paramedic participants. A prominent emerging theme was that of PTSD among paramedics, and it was an area that the participants felt should receive much more attention, research and intervention.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Minnie, Chantel
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Allied health personnel -- South Africa , Allied health personnel -- Mental health -- South Africa , Post-traumatic stress disorder -- South Africa , Emergency medical services -- Psychological aspects
- Language: English
- Type: text , Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10962/61580 , vital:28039
- Description: Paramedics in South Africa are among the best in the world (MacFarlane, van Loggerenberg, & Kloeck, 2005). However, the domain of pre-hospital emergency care is fraught with challenges and paramedics face numerous personal and professional difficulties. South Africa, with its diverse patient population and challenges, cannot afford to undermine the importance of supportive interventions for emergency medical technicians. Whilst there is a growing body of literature examining the effectiveness of mental skills training in the sporting domain (Gould, Dieffenbach, & Moffett, 2002; Landers & Boutcher, 1998), there is a lack of research on mental skills training as it pertains to paramedics. It is argued here, that the use of mental skills training derived from sporting science and adapted for the military, provides the most comparable context in relation to the paramedic industry. This study thus aims to explore the adaptability and applicability of military mental skills training techniques in the context of South African paramedics. This study made use of an exploratory, qualitative case study design, focusing on participatory research strategies. The analysis revealed that various aspects of existing military mental skills models can be adapted to be of relevance in the emergency medical services field as it related to three paramedic participants. A prominent emerging theme was that of PTSD among paramedics, and it was an area that the participants felt should receive much more attention, research and intervention.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Exploring the continuities and discontinuities in South African political violence: the Sharpeville, Bhisho and Marikana massacres
- Authors: Menye, Mongezi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Political violence , Sharpeville Massacre, Sharpeville, South Africa, 1960 Massacres -- South Africa -- Rustenburg Massacres -- South Africa -- Bisho
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32017 , vital:31914
- Description: This treatise focuses on the underlying factors of political violence before and after the end of apartheid in South Africa. Its emphasis is on the continuities and discontinuities of political violence with primary attention on the Sharpeville, Bhisho and Marikana Massacres. The treatise deals with the political and socio-economic factors that has led to the aforementioned massacres. This include the relative political, social and ideological strengths of differing political groups and their conflict resolution mechanism. The widespread and recurrent political violence in South Africa has been the connerstone of this study. The analysis established that the Sharpeville, Bhisho and Marikana Masacres had unwarranted consequences in South Africa. The understanding of current and past political violence is a fundamental initiative. This helps to clarify past political violence issues that were not addressed properly and are now resurfacing in a different form. The failure to address the root causes of political violence is the main challenge that has to be dealt with accordingly by government. The treatise also outlined the necessity and urgency of a new research on the training, control and command of members of the South African Police Services to ensure that where the police deal with members of the public engaged in legitimate democratic protest. The escalation of violence is defused and the official response to such violence is consistent with the provisions embedded in the South African Constitution.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Menye, Mongezi
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Political violence , Sharpeville Massacre, Sharpeville, South Africa, 1960 Massacres -- South Africa -- Rustenburg Massacres -- South Africa -- Bisho
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MA
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10948/32017 , vital:31914
- Description: This treatise focuses on the underlying factors of political violence before and after the end of apartheid in South Africa. Its emphasis is on the continuities and discontinuities of political violence with primary attention on the Sharpeville, Bhisho and Marikana Massacres. The treatise deals with the political and socio-economic factors that has led to the aforementioned massacres. This include the relative political, social and ideological strengths of differing political groups and their conflict resolution mechanism. The widespread and recurrent political violence in South Africa has been the connerstone of this study. The analysis established that the Sharpeville, Bhisho and Marikana Masacres had unwarranted consequences in South Africa. The understanding of current and past political violence is a fundamental initiative. This helps to clarify past political violence issues that were not addressed properly and are now resurfacing in a different form. The failure to address the root causes of political violence is the main challenge that has to be dealt with accordingly by government. The treatise also outlined the necessity and urgency of a new research on the training, control and command of members of the South African Police Services to ensure that where the police deal with members of the public engaged in legitimate democratic protest. The escalation of violence is defused and the official response to such violence is consistent with the provisions embedded in the South African Constitution.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Exploring the effectiveness of the Ucoceko laundry project through the assessment of the positive development contributions in Molteno, Eastern Cape
- Authors: Qitsi, Asanda
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Youth development Laundry industry Rural development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15661 , vital:40499
- Description: The research explored the effectiveness of Ucoceko Laundry Project assessing the positive development contributions in the Molteno area in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The researcher cross examined the contribution of Ucoceko Laundry project on economic benefits, the challenges faced by the beneficiaries of the Ucoceko Laundry Project and the support services that social service practitioners and other stakeholders are offering in Ucoceko Laundry project. The study used a qualitative with in- depth interviews as a research instrument to collect data. The research instrument had closed ended and open-ended questions making it easy and better for the participants to express their views. The study utilized empowerment theory. Empowerment theory is the multi-dimensional social process that helps people gain control over their own lives. The researcher interviewed 15 Xhosa speaking participants to gather the required data from mixed gender categories of males and females respectively and the use of 5 focus group members which comprised of government officials and funders who have contributed to the development and success of the project. The researcher has utilized a non-probability sampling method which is a specifically purposive technique. Researcher analyzed data using a qualitative approach in a comprehensive thematic way.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Qitsi, Asanda
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Youth development Laundry industry Rural development
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/15661 , vital:40499
- Description: The research explored the effectiveness of Ucoceko Laundry Project assessing the positive development contributions in the Molteno area in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. The researcher cross examined the contribution of Ucoceko Laundry project on economic benefits, the challenges faced by the beneficiaries of the Ucoceko Laundry Project and the support services that social service practitioners and other stakeholders are offering in Ucoceko Laundry project. The study used a qualitative with in- depth interviews as a research instrument to collect data. The research instrument had closed ended and open-ended questions making it easy and better for the participants to express their views. The study utilized empowerment theory. Empowerment theory is the multi-dimensional social process that helps people gain control over their own lives. The researcher interviewed 15 Xhosa speaking participants to gather the required data from mixed gender categories of males and females respectively and the use of 5 focus group members which comprised of government officials and funders who have contributed to the development and success of the project. The researcher has utilized a non-probability sampling method which is a specifically purposive technique. Researcher analyzed data using a qualitative approach in a comprehensive thematic way.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
Exploring the experience of family members living with individuals who abuse alcohol and/or substances: Study conducted in Khayelitsha, Western Cape
- Authors: Modise, Badise
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Alcoholism , Substance abuse , Family violence
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13116 , vital:39466
- Description: The constant, excessive and frequently uncontrollable abuse of alcoholic beverages and drug related substances continues to have many devastating effects on family members of the abusers. The impact can be explored in various ways, but the findings are likely to be hand in glove regardless of the causes associated with this phenomenon. This study aimed to explore the experiences of family members living with individuals who abuse alcohol and/or substances through case studies conducted in Khayelitsha, in the Western Province of South Africa. The study was conducted to gain greater insight into the experiences of the family members in order to provide the appropriate assistance to help them deal with these issues. From the data that was captured and analysed, it was clear that alcohol and substance abuse inflicted profound suffering on family members. It contributes to high levels of interpersonal conflict, domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, financial problems as well as health issues for all parties involved - causing extreme emotional pain and suffering. Living with an alcohol or substance abuser inevitably results in financial burden, dysfunctional relationships and family life in addition to impacting on safety needs. Furthermore, the results have shown that family members of alcohol and substance dependents develop psychological and mental distress; anxiety, and insomnia. Likewise, the family members develop psychophysiological symptoms such as high-blood pressure and chronic headaches. With regards to rehabilitation, family members reported exclusion from rehabilitation programs and lost their belief in self-rehabilitation or detoxification.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018
- Authors: Modise, Badise
- Date: 2018
- Subjects: Alcoholism , Substance abuse , Family violence
- Language: English
- Type: Thesis , Masters , MSoc
- Identifier: http://hdl.handle.net/10353/13116 , vital:39466
- Description: The constant, excessive and frequently uncontrollable abuse of alcoholic beverages and drug related substances continues to have many devastating effects on family members of the abusers. The impact can be explored in various ways, but the findings are likely to be hand in glove regardless of the causes associated with this phenomenon. This study aimed to explore the experiences of family members living with individuals who abuse alcohol and/or substances through case studies conducted in Khayelitsha, in the Western Province of South Africa. The study was conducted to gain greater insight into the experiences of the family members in order to provide the appropriate assistance to help them deal with these issues. From the data that was captured and analysed, it was clear that alcohol and substance abuse inflicted profound suffering on family members. It contributes to high levels of interpersonal conflict, domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, financial problems as well as health issues for all parties involved - causing extreme emotional pain and suffering. Living with an alcohol or substance abuser inevitably results in financial burden, dysfunctional relationships and family life in addition to impacting on safety needs. Furthermore, the results have shown that family members of alcohol and substance dependents develop psychological and mental distress; anxiety, and insomnia. Likewise, the family members develop psychophysiological symptoms such as high-blood pressure and chronic headaches. With regards to rehabilitation, family members reported exclusion from rehabilitation programs and lost their belief in self-rehabilitation or detoxification.
- Full Text:
- Date Issued: 2018